But we shall have a further insight into the truth of his confession, while we consider, II. His explanation of it —
The connexion between the two parts of our Lord's answer is not obvious at first sight : but, on compar- ing them with attention, we shall find, that in the latter he explains,
1. The manner in which he exercises his kingly office —
[Satan is " the god of this world," " the prince that ruleth in all the children of disobedience11." He has usurped a power over the whole race of mankind, and he governs them all as his vassals1.
Now Jesus has not, like other kings, any persons who are his subjects by birth: every one of his subjects is rescued from under the dominion of Satan, and constrained to submit to him.
e Isai. ix. 6, 7. Dan. ii. 44. and vii. 13, 14. and ix. 25. and Ps, lxxii. 1, 11.
f Matt. ii. 2. Luke i. 32, 33. s John x. 25.
" 2 Cor. iv. 4. Eph. ii. 2. } 2 Tim. ii. 26.
But with what weapons dues our blessed Lord invade the kingdom of Satan? not with those which are used in earthly wars, but with the force of truth. It is by darkness and false- hood that Satan retains men in his service; and it is by the light of truth that Christ delivers them from their bondage. Satan makes men believe that " God is even such an one as themselves;" that they have no reason to fear his displeasure; that their own good works or repentance will save them; and that it is sufficient for them to maintain a moral and decent conduct. Our blessed Lord, on the contrary, proclaims that God is a just and holy Being ; that sinners are obnoxious to his wrath ; that there is no reconciliation with God but through him ; and that they who would be happy in the next world, must now devote themselves wholly to the service of their God. It had been foretold that He should be " a witness to the people k :" and he came agreeably to the prediction, " to bear witness to the truth." " For this very end was he born ;" and by executing this office, he prevailed, and still does prevail, on thousands to renounce their allegiance to Satan, and to " take upon them his light and easy yoke."]
2. The distinguishing character of his subjects —
[Those are said to be " of the truth," who have been begotten, or converted, by it: just as those are said to be " of God," who have been born of God1. Now every one that has experienced the influence of truth in " bringing him out of darkness into light," and " in translating him from the power of Satan into the kingdom of God's dear Son™," from that time " hears the voice of Christ," and obeys it without reserve. "Other lords had dominion over him before:" the world governed him by its maxims ; the flesh captivated him by its allurements ; the devil enslaved him by his temptations : but from henceforth he will not listen to the syren voice of plea- sure, or regard the calls of interest or reputation : he has sworn allegiance to the Lord Jesus Christ; and for him he is determined to sacrifice every other consideration.
This designates the character of Christ's subjects. Wherever such persons are found, these are the subjects of his kingdom. Other kings exercise their sway over those only who are born in a particular country: but in whatever country these persons live, they belong to Christ; to Christ supremely, to Christ only. All other authorities are subservient to his ; and are to be obeyed so far only as shall be agreeable to his laws, and conducive to his honour.
At the same time, none are his subjects, who do not cor-
k Isai. lv. 4. J Compare Jam. i. 18. with 1 John iii. 19.